Animal Parks
in
Watamu Snakes alive! Stroke a slithery, scaled reptile and watch venomous snakes being milked.
Bio-Ken Snake Farm is a research centre housing fascinating reptiles and dealing mostly with snakes and snakebites. It houses the largest collection of snakes in East Africa and is open to visitors.
As well as touring the facilities and the reptiles, visitors can go on day safaris to look for snakes in their natural habitat with trained guides. Bio-Ken Snake Farm is regarded as the best of the snake parks along Kenya’s coast.
Treading lightly upon the Earth
Bio-Ken operates a snake removal service for the locals. Their ‘Saving Snakes’ program ensures that unwanted reptiles are released into a more suitable spot in the wild or housed at the Snake farm for study. Snakes are also milked for medical research and for making anti-venom to treat local victims of poisonous snakebites.
Up for a terrific scaly adventure? Join experts on a Big 5 Snake Safari – searching for the most impressive African snakes – pythons, boomslang, puff adders, cobras and mambas!
Did you know? Kenya is home to 127 snake species, of which only 18 have caused human fatalities and 93 are not venomous or dangerous.
Open 10:00 – 12:00 & 14:00 – 17:00
+254 (0) 42 32303
snakes@africaonline.co.ke
www.bio-ken.com
Galleries and Museums
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Makadara The impressive Fort Jesus on Mombasa Island is a significant historical landmark in East Africa and a popular attraction for local and international visitors.
It was built in 1593 to guard the entrance of the harbour by order of King Philip I of Portugal, also King Philip II of Spain, joint monarch of the Portuguese and Spanish Kingdoms. The fort was given the name of Jesus, and displays the shape of a man from the air.
In 2011 Fort Jesus was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its significance as one of the most outstanding and well-preserved examples of 16th Century Portuguese military fortifications.
Apart from its status as a major tourist destination, the Fort is an important host for numerous research programs, a Conservation Lab, and Education Department and the Old Town Conservation Office.
Nature Reserves
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Bamburi Go wild about big teeth, fur and feathers in Mombasa
Formerly known as Bamburi Nature Trail, Haller Park is a unique wildlife sanctuary situated on Mombasa's North Coast. This nature park was once a limestone quarry, and now provides an attractive home for a variety of plant, bird and animal species. Popular attractions include the Crocodile Farm, Reptile Park, Palm Garden and Game Sanctuary.
Feed the Rothschild giraffes on the feeding platform at 11:00am and 3pm. Watch Sally, Potty and Cleo, the renowned hippos feed at 4pm daily. Meet the newest celebrities, hippo Owen and his adoptive ‘mother’, a 120-year-old tortoise named Mzee. Don’t miss seeing the inseparable couple being fed at 4:30pm.
Guided educational tours enable visitors to have close up views of the birds and animals. Professional guides conduct these tours in English, French, German, Italian or Swahili.
Up for a romantic forest adventure?
Lace up your walking shoes and take a wild walk on one of the trails through the peaceful, cool, and safe Bamburi Forest.
Popular Attractions
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Diani Beach The Uzuri Spa and Fitness Forest is situated in the grounds of the Leopard Beach Resort within six acres of indigenous forest. ‘Uzuri’ – meaning goodness in Swahili – is a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility and rejuvenation of mind, body and soul. The spa offers a luxurious combination of original African products and European style treatments.
The extensive menu of treatments for men and women ranges from TheraNaka massage therapies to Theravine anti-ageing facials, hydrotherapy, body wraps and the usual waxing, manicures and pedicures. Uzuri comprises five treatment rooms including two double rooms for couples.
All treatment rooms have an outside courtyard for al-fresco massages, each with showers that complement the hydro baths. Other facilities include Afya Gym – a fully equipped health and fitness gym, a large outdoor Jacuzzi, a sauna and steam bath. A health bar is situated next to the pool offering a variety of fresh juices, smoothies and a selection of healthy salads and light meals.
The latest addition is a dedicated yoga and aerobics pavilion. Soothing sounds, intoxicating aromas, tranquil ambience, gracious staff, peace, serenity and pampered indulgence typifies the Uzuri experience.
Things to do near
Mombasa
*Distances are shown as the crow flies and not necessarily the actual travelling
distance.
Popular Attractions
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Changamwe (3.4 km from Mombasa) The Akamba Handicrafts Cooperative is a nonprofit organization that manufacturers and exports fine woodcarvings, animal sculptures, decorative accessories, and fancy customized goods.
Akamba Handicrafts produce high quality animal woodcarvings on site. Customers can walk into the workshops, meet the friendly artists and witness the creative process. The Akamba Handicrafts Cooperative employs an incredible 10,000 people from the local area.
Galleries and Museums
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Makadara (4 km from Mombasa) The impressive Fort Jesus on Mombasa Island is a significant historical landmark in East Africa and a popular attraction for local and international visitors.
It was built in 1593 to guard the entrance of the harbour by order of King Philip I of Portugal, also King Philip II of Spain, joint monarch of the Portuguese and Spanish Kingdoms. The fort was given the name of Jesus, and displays the shape of a man from the air.
In 2011 Fort Jesus was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its significance as one of the most outstanding and well-preserved examples of 16th Century Portuguese military fortifications.
Apart from its status as a major tourist destination, the Fort is an important host for numerous research programs, a Conservation Lab, and Education Department and the Old Town Conservation Office.
Nature Reserves
in
Bamburi (6.9 km from Mombasa) Go wild about big teeth, fur and feathers in Mombasa
Formerly known as Bamburi Nature Trail, Haller Park is a unique wildlife sanctuary situated on Mombasa's North Coast. This nature park was once a limestone quarry, and now provides an attractive home for a variety of plant, bird and animal species. Popular attractions include the Crocodile Farm, Reptile Park, Palm Garden and Game Sanctuary.
Feed the Rothschild giraffes on the feeding platform at 11:00am and 3pm. Watch Sally, Potty and Cleo, the renowned hippos feed at 4pm daily. Meet the newest celebrities, hippo Owen and his adoptive ‘mother’, a 120-year-old tortoise named Mzee. Don’t miss seeing the inseparable couple being fed at 4:30pm.
Guided educational tours enable visitors to have close up views of the birds and animals. Professional guides conduct these tours in English, French, German, Italian or Swahili.
Up for a romantic forest adventure?
Lace up your walking shoes and take a wild walk on one of the trails through the peaceful, cool, and safe Bamburi Forest.
Beaches
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Diani Beach (27.8 km from Mombasa) One of the world's great beaches for kite surfing! Add to that scuba diving, snorkelling, deep-sea fishing, the coral reef and heavenly white sand and you have the perfect place for a wonderful holiday.
Photo source: Joao Maximo, under CC licence.
Popular Attractions
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Diani Beach (28.9 km from Mombasa) The Uzuri Spa and Fitness Forest is situated in the grounds of the Leopard Beach Resort within six acres of indigenous forest. ‘Uzuri’ – meaning goodness in Swahili – is a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility and rejuvenation of mind, body and soul. The spa offers a luxurious combination of original African products and European style treatments.
The extensive menu of treatments for men and women ranges from TheraNaka massage therapies to Theravine anti-ageing facials, hydrotherapy, body wraps and the usual waxing, manicures and pedicures. Uzuri comprises five treatment rooms including two double rooms for couples.
All treatment rooms have an outside courtyard for al-fresco massages, each with showers that complement the hydro baths. Other facilities include Afya Gym – a fully equipped health and fitness gym, a large outdoor Jacuzzi, a sauna and steam bath. A health bar is situated next to the pool offering a variety of fresh juices, smoothies and a selection of healthy salads and light meals.
The latest addition is a dedicated yoga and aerobics pavilion. Soothing sounds, intoxicating aromas, tranquil ambience, gracious staff, peace, serenity and pampered indulgence typifies the Uzuri experience.
Galleries and Museums
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Diani Beach (29.6 km from Mombasa) Artists, art lovers and patrons alike shouldn’t miss stopping in at Diani Beach Art Gallery for a refreshing take on contemporary fine African art. The airy space and relaxed atmosphere lends itself to enjoyable viewing and discovering more about top African artists.
The diverse selection of painted works, sculptures and photography hails from well-known artists as well as up-and-coming creatives from Kenya and Africa. Keep an eye open for their art classes, wine and cheese evenings, special promotions and other events.
Where? Diani Beach Shopping Centre, Diani Beach.
Open Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 17:00.
+254 (0) 20 268 4110
Golf Courses
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Diani Beach (29.6 km from Mombasa) The Leisure Lodge Golf Club offers a unique playing experience in peaceful Diani Beach. Players of all skill levels will find the 18-hole course an appealing challenge.
The beautiful course is designed by Tommy Fjastad to harmonise with the natural environments found in Diani. Palm, cashew nut, casuarinas and mango trees line the fairways.
Between teeing off, take time to enjoy the resident wildlife and birds. The Leisure Lodge Golf Club is home to the annual Diani Masters.
Bars
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Diani Beach (32.3 km from Mombasa) Kick back with a cocktail while the waves gently lap your toes. At the Forty Thieves Beach Bar & Bistro you can listen to live music, play bar games, watch water sports, enjoy a delicious lunch or party the night away. You’re always assured a warm welcome and there's a disco under the stars every evening.
www.beachbar.co
Golf Courses
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Diani Beach (38.5 km from Mombasa) The attractive 18-hole golf course at Leisure Lodge Golf & Beach Resort offers 300 days of sunshine and golfing pleasure throughout the year.
The course is designed by Thommy Fjastad and is characterized by rolling fairways, challenging bunkers, appealing water features and impeccable greens.
Inspired by the stunning tropical landscape, it motivates and challenges visitors to improve their level of play.
Nature Reserves
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Kwale (41.2 km from Mombasa) Shimba Hills National Reserve is located 33 km south of Mombasa and provides visitors exciting activities such as game viewing, trekking, and overnight camping.
Rich in flora and fauna, the reserve boasts the highest density of African elephant in Kenya. Other species include sable antelope, black and rufous elephant shrew, bushy tailed mongoose and others. The forest habitat also hosts a variety of bird species, with 111 species recorded to date.
Entrance is done through four gates, and park fees paid in cash only.
Nature Reserves
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Kisite Mpunguti National Marine Park (82.4 km from Mombasa) Kisite Mpunguti National Marine Park’s star attractions include dolphins, coral gardens, fabulous snorkeling, diving and bird watching. The stunning sandy beach is good for environmentally friendly recreational activities.
The ecosystem covers a marine area with four small islands surrounded by coral reef. Kisite Island itself is covered in low grass and herbs while the Mpunguti Islands feature dense coastal equatorial forest.
Significant numbers of rare crab-plovers and roseate terns migrate from Europe to nest here. Tropical reef fish include large schools of pelagic fish, butterfly, parrot, rockcod and angel fish. Manta rays, turtles, dolphins and reef sharks are frequently seen.
Animal Parks
in
Watamu (86.1 km from Mombasa) Snakes alive! Stroke a slithery, scaled reptile and watch venomous snakes being milked.
Bio-Ken Snake Farm is a research centre housing fascinating reptiles and dealing mostly with snakes and snakebites. It houses the largest collection of snakes in East Africa and is open to visitors.
As well as touring the facilities and the reptiles, visitors can go on day safaris to look for snakes in their natural habitat with trained guides. Bio-Ken Snake Farm is regarded as the best of the snake parks along Kenya’s coast.
Treading lightly upon the Earth
Bio-Ken operates a snake removal service for the locals. Their ‘Saving Snakes’ program ensures that unwanted reptiles are released into a more suitable spot in the wild or housed at the Snake farm for study. Snakes are also milked for medical research and for making anti-venom to treat local victims of poisonous snakebites.
Up for a terrific scaly adventure? Join experts on a Big 5 Snake Safari – searching for the most impressive African snakes – pythons, boomslang, puff adders, cobras and mambas!
Did you know? Kenya is home to 127 snake species, of which only 18 have caused human fatalities and 93 are not venomous or dangerous.
Open 10:00 – 12:00 & 14:00 – 17:00
+254 (0) 42 32303
snakes@africaonline.co.ke
www.bio-ken.com
Animal Parks
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Watamu (86.3 km from Mombasa) The Local Ocean Trust Marine Conservation Centre is an interactive and educational centre promoting marine conservation in the area.
The Centre is the first of its kind on the Kenyan coast and celebrates the varied marine habitats of Watamu. Their mission is to instill an appreciation of the beauty and wonders of the marine world, particularly the underwater one, which few Kenyans have had the opportunity to witness.
Attractive murals and illustrated displays provide fascinating information on intertidal zones, mangroves, coral reefs, and open ocean, sea turtles and Mida creek.
+254 (0) 233 2118 or +254 (0) 71 575 6738
info@watamuturtles.com
www.watamuturtles.com